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The Malta Business Network UK recently extended a special invitation to its UK members to attend a fundraising evening in aid of the St John Association, Malta at the magnificent Chapter Hall of the historic St John’s Gate, Clerkenwell, London, now the headquarters of the Venerable Order of St John.

The event, held on November 1, 2018, was co-hosted by the Prior of England and the Islands and Chair of the St John Ambulance, Surgeon Rear Admiral Lionel Jarvis, and the chairman of the St John Association, Malta, Dr Michael Frendo.

It was a unique opportunity to visit such a significant venue in the heart of London. The event was well attended by representatives of the MBN UK Board and members, together with Maltese business and professional people residing in the UK and British members of the Venerable Order.

The Malta Association was represented by Dr Frendo and by Chev Ray Cassar, member of the Association’s Council and chair of its fundraising committee. The deputy chairman and Commander of the Malta St John Association, Colonel Mark Mallia, who had also overseen the organisation of the event, was regrettably unable to attend at the last minute.

At the event, the Prior of England formally invested Dr Frendo with the rank of Commander of the Venerable Order of St John, a British Royal Order of Chivalry, of which Queen Elizabeth II is the Sovereign Head. Following this investiture, Chev Cassar delivered a brief illustrated overview of the history of the Knights of St John. Dr Frendo then delivered a presentation on the history and works of the St John Association Malta and the projects that required support and financing.

Chev. Ray Cassar, Chair of the Fundraising Committee, delivered a brief illustrated overview of the history of the Knights of St John

Three Maltese artists generously donated three works which were auctioned at the event. Joseph Baluci donated a painting of a procession of knights emerging from St John’s Co-Cathedral, Anthony Patrick Vella donated a painting representing a helmet, shield and a sword symbolising the military history of the Order, while a young artist, Jennings Falzon, donated a statuette, The Warrior Monk. All three works of art attracted a great deal of interest and were successfully auctioned to those present. The event was also supported by the Corinthia Hotel, London, Marsovin and Farsons.